Curtis Island, Queensland Island

Address: Curtis Island, Queensland, Australia (Drafts Beach, Middle Island precincts)

Website: https://www.npsr.qld.gov.au

Curtis Island is a large island off the central Queensland coast near the city of Gladstone, Australia. The island lies at the mouth of the Fitzroy River and is known for a mix of heavy industry and protected natural areas.

The western side of the island contains major liquefied natural gas (LNG) export facilities that serve the Gladstone industrial precinct. Conversely, several parts of the island are set aside for conservation, including Curtis Island National Park, which protects coastal dunes, saltmarsh and other coastal habitats.

The island is accessible by ferry from Gladstone and sits just offshore of the city and Port Curtis in central Queensland.

• Industry: Major liquefied natural gas export facilities are located on the island’s western and northern shorelines and are a prominent industrial presence visible from nearby Gladstone.

What to See#

• Curtis Island National Park: A series of small national park and conservation areas protecting coastal dunes, wetlands and wallaby habitat on the island’s north and east sides.

Ferries operate from Gladstone and other nearby mainland launch points; the main access is by vehicle ferry or barge depending on the landing site. Driving from Gladstone to the ferry terminals is the usual route-check local ferry operators for current timetables and vehicle restrictions.

• Ferries run from the mainland (Gladstone) and schedules can be seasonal-check ahead.
• Visit the Paperbark Forest boardwalk and the beaches at low tide for marine life observations.
• Avoid mid-summer if sensitive to stifling humidity and seasonal stinger warnings in the water.